DHAKA: Japan has issued a tsunami advisory after a magnitude-6.9 earthquake struck off its northeastern coast early Tuesday.

The quake struck shortly after 8:00 am Japan time at a depth of about 10 kilometers.

The Japan Meteorological Agency issued an advisory for a possible 1 metre tsunami. 

Japanese broadcaster NHK warned people to stay away from the shore.

Local ports Miyako, Ofunato, Kamaishi and Kuji could see the wave between 8.40am and 9:00am.

Evacuation advisory ordered for about 20,000 people in the area. People living in coastal areas or riversides are being told by authorities to leave immediately.

It's being described as a "local Tsunami threat" by a spokesperson for the Japanese Tsunami advisory.  

According to VOA Asia correspondent Steve Herman, there are no abnormalities reported at TEPCO nuclear power plants.

Source: Television New Zealand

BDST: 0735 HRS, FEB 17, 2015